Egypt’s Customs Overhaul: Cairo Chamber Briefs Businesses on ACI and New Procedures

The Cairo Chamber of Commerce, led by Ayman Al-Ashry, recently hosted an introductory seminar. This event focused on the latest customs developments, specifically the mandatory implementation of the Advance Cargo Information (ACI) system for air shipments, effective January 1, 2026. Discussions also covered the procedures for the air ACI system, updated export system protocols, and various customs facilities designed to streamline trade.

Ahmed El-Wassimy, a board member of the Cairo Chamber, chaired the seminar. Ahmed Abdel Wahed, Head of the Customs Brokers Division at the Cairo Chamber, also participated. Key officials present included Ahmed El-Askalany, Deputy Head of the Customs Authority, and Khaled Nasser, a consultant from MTS Company, along with a team from the Customs Authority. Their role was to clarify details and address questions from the diverse audience, which comprised heads and members of various commercial divisions, as well as owners of export and import companies. Mohamed Tamam, Secretary-General and Head of the Executive Apparatus at the Cairo Chamber, and Hamdy Abdel Moneim, Advisor to the Secretary-General, also attended.

Ahmed El-Wassimy underscored the crucial cooperation between the Chamber, the Customs Authority, and MTS Company. This collaboration aims to keep the business community informed about the latest customs updates and the pre-registration system for air shipments. He explained that these efforts are designed to simplify export and import procedures, review essential customs clearance processes, and clarify ACI system protocols. El-Wassimy affirmed that such cooperation serves the public interest, eases commercial and industrial operations, boosts investment across various sectors, and aligns with Egypt’s Development Vision 2030.

El-Wassimy also pointed to the value of holding such events repeatedly. These gatherings help bridge different viewpoints and ensure Chamber members stay updated on economic procedural changes. He noted that this fosters greater integration between the public and private sectors.

El-Wassimy commended the productive cooperation and professional approach demonstrated by Ahmed El-Askalany, Khaled Nasser, and the entire Customs team during the seminar. He praised their flexible and straightforward responses to all inquiries, highlighting their commitment to facilitating processes for Chamber members. The officials expressed their ongoing readiness to answer any further questions that could simplify procedures for the business community, for which El-Wassimy extended his gratitude.

Ahmed Abdel Wahed emphasized the seminar’s significance amidst ongoing customs developments. He highlighted the benefit of direct engagement with customs officials to exchange views, discuss proposals, and address business community concerns. This dialogue helps overcome potential obstacles for companies. Abdel Wahed stressed that customs plays a pivotal role in developing all import and export activities, and staying informed on new procedures reduces problems, thereby supporting the nation’s developmental trajectory.

Ahmed El-Askalany confirmed the strong collaboration between the Customs Authority and the Cairo Chamber. He stated the Authority’s continuous readiness to explain all developments within the customs system. El-Askalany detailed ongoing procedures by the Ministry of Finance and the Customs Authority, coordinated with the Ministry of Investment and Foreign Trade, primarily aimed at streamlining customs processes. He noted the alignment on import and export rules, which have defined timelines, and continuous monitoring efforts to reduce customs clearance times. El-Askalany then outlined several customs procedures and facilitations, explaining their current operation to achieve a successful customs system. A Customs team subsequently provided a practical, on-screen demonstration of customs procedures and updates, addressing all questions from attendees.

Khaled Nasser presented on the “Nafeza” system, detailing its functionalities, procedures, and the facilitations it offers. He stressed the importance of continued cooperation and readiness to answer all questions from Chamber members. A team from MTS Company then delivered a comprehensive, practical demonstration of the Nafeza system and its latest updates on screen, engaging with the business community through questions and discussions.

Attendees expressed their satisfaction after benefiting from the multi-hour seminar. Throughout the event, participants delved into the specifics of the customs system, its latest updates, and various proposals, exchanging perspectives to ensure its effective implementation and success. Learn more about Egyptian Customs initiatives.